“Stephen Cruz”, Terkel

1. What is the conflict that keeps Cruz from being content with his accomplishments?
2. What do you think is meant by “get to know our business?” What did it mean for Cruz to “behave himself?” How had he not behaved himself?
3. What do you think is Cruz’s notion of the American Dream? How did he feel about it? What do you think was his notion of success? Did it change?
4. Is there any way in which you can relate to Stephen Cruz’s experience?
5. When thinking about the issues Cruz brings up, what forms of oppression come to mind?